Veteran actor Patrick Stewart, best known for his iconic roles in the X-Men and Star Trek franchises, has died in Los Angeles at the age of 86.His death was confirmed by his representatives through a statement shared on his social media accounts on Thursday. He passed away at his home on Wednesday after a brief battle with Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia.
The statement said Stewart was surrounded by his wife, Sunny Ozell, family members and friends during his final moments. His last days were filled with music, prayers, tears and laughter.
Stewart is survived by his wife, Sunny Ozell, and his two children from his first marriage, Daniel Stewart and Sophie Alexandra-Stewart.
Co-stars Pay Tribute to Patrick Stewart
Several actors who worked with Stewart paid emotional tributes following his death.
William Shatner, his Star Trek co-star, remembered him as a friend, colleague and magnificent actor. He praised Stewart for bringing intelligence, grace and humanity to his performances, adding that his portrayal of Captain Jean-Luc Picard represented the best of humanity.
Actor Hugh Jackman, who shared the screen with Stewart in the X-Men films, also expressed his grief. He described Stewart as one of the greatest actors of stage and screen and a tremendous friend, saying he had learned a lot from him.
Actor Cary Elwes, who worked with Stewart in Lady Jane and Robin Hood: Men in Tights, recalled meeting him on the sets of Lady Jane in 1984.
He remembered Stewart as a kind and friendly person with a great sense of humour and praised his commanding screen presence and distinctive voice.
Elwes also recalled recommending Stewart for the role of King Richard in Robin Hood: Men in Tights, which he eventually accepted.
He concluded his tribute by expressing condolences to Stewart’s wife, children, friends and fans, remembering him as an actor whose talent and warmth would be deeply missed.